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Beyond Australia's most optimistic hopes could they have believed they'd find themselves leading two-nil in the current Ashes series after playing only six days of cricket.

The hosts were placed under severe pressure by England during the opener at the WACA, then pulled off a remarkable turnaround.

This propelled them on a wave of confidence heading into the Brisbane encounter, where they delivered the English side a masterclass on playing the longest format, particularly pink-ball matches.

A Critical Juncture

This series remains alive, however, it's perilously close. If England don't win the third Test, the situation could become embarrassing.

I got an intimate view of England's approach during the last Ashes series in the UK. For all of the talk about this tour being their chance to finally win a series down under, there was a lot of scepticism among Australian pundits about the way England play.

Would England's batting be appropriate for Australian conditions? Would they play big shots and find ways to get out? Would they crumble under the pressure of the big moments?

Right now, every one of the Australians who were sceptical about England are being proved validated.

Attitude and Accountability

There is a lot I admire regarding England's mindset. I love it when sportspeople play without fear, as this enables them to extend the limits of what is possible.

But I don't like the idea that pressure or high expectations should be eliminated. The great players excel when challenged, and the best teams ensure members to account.

"Indeed, there existed support staff such as Simpson and Buchanan, but it was the skipper and senior players who invariably managed the team environment."

Even as a young player, I felt like I was allowed to have my say. Everyone took responsibility of the team.

Subsequently, should someone stepped out of line, they were held accountable from their teammates. If an individual committed an error repeatedly - which didn't happen very often - they were told.

A Winning Formula

Our team contained several dominant characters - no one more prominent than the legendary Shane Warne - yet we collectively believed that what we were doing served the team and our comrades. Matthew Hayden often stated we pulled together due to the affection we shared, such was the duration we spent together.

That sense of duty, obligation and adaptability all came together when we stepped onto the pitch as a unit.

Admittedly, these factors are easier while a side secures victories, a scenario England are not doing at this moment.

Examining the Approach

My concern for England was the message of a rigid style fostered an environment deficient in accountability.

It seemed that England had decided pitches must conform to their game, instead of England adapting their game to the prevailing conditions.

Ultimately, following the result of the defeat in Brisbane, it looks like the penny has dropped.

Captain Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum conceded problems exist, and they need take action to address them.

I have no problems with what the English leadership made publicly after the Brisbane Test. If Stokes and McCullum have been forthright in the media, you can guarantee they have been even more forceful in private meetings.

Evolution Required

Might we witness an evolved form of their aggressive brand? As I mentioned, I like the aspect of competing fearlessly. If England can incorporate the elements of pressure and mutual accountability, then they might still be on to something.

For all that England have faced criticism, Australia merits significant credit of credit.

Had England had been told they would face an Australia team without all of Pat Cummins, Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, they would have been rubbing their hands with glee.

Nevertheless, Australia pulled off a win at the Gabba with each of their remaining players standing up.

Australian Standouts

Pacer Mitchell Starc has been absolutely outstanding, ably assisted by Michael Neser, Boland and Doggett.

Alex Carey delivered an absolute masterclass with the gloves, possibly the best display of keeping I have witnessed - and I shared a dressing room with Ian Healy and Adam Gilchrist.

Perhaps the biggest discovery for Australia is the change within the top order.

Prior to the contest, when there seemed to be a lot of debate about the Australia line-up, I said there was essentially just a debate concerning one position - Usman Khawaja's opening partner.

That discussion has been settled, just not in a way anyone predicted.

Settling the Order

From the moment Batsman Travis Head stuck his hand up to bat as an opener when Khawaja got hurt during the Perth Test, Australia has appeared like a different team. Now, it appears to be the opportunity for Head and Jake Weatherald to cement themselves as the first-wicket duo.

Khawaja might find it tough to regain his place, despite the coach Andrew McDonald has suggested he might feature at number five.

Absences and the Next Challenge

Fitness issues will result in English speedster Mark Wood and Australia's Josh Hazlewood being absent for the third Test and the rest of the series.

This represents a great shame for both athletes. I know how much hard work required to bowl quickly, the dedication involved in coming back from setbacks, and how desperate both players were to play a full part in this contest. They will be devastated.

Adelaide will provide a good pitch, with something in it for batters and bowlers alike. Australia will undoubtedly recall Lyon and it looks like Cummins will be back to captain the side.

The Final Word

Australia recalls how England came from a two-nil deficit to level the previous series. They are aware England poses a threat.

This time, they have England in a stranglehold and must not relent merely because some big names are coming back. They must avoid becoming overconfident.

An Australian side must always believe it is capable of winning each match it contests, therefore this squad ought to be aiming for a 5-0.

England will know they are compelled but to turn things around in Adelaide. If they don't, could indeed lead to a 5-0 series defeat.